Use of certain medications, including antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs, codeine, and morphine

Use of street drugs, including amphetamines (speed), cocaine, and heroin

Home Care

People with cancer or a chronic illness need to increase their protein
and calorie intake by eating high-calorie, nutritious snacks or several small meals during the day. Liquid protein drinks may be helpful.

Family members should try to supply favorite foods to help stimulate the person's appetite.

Keep a record of what you eat and drink for 24 hours. This is called a diet history.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Call your health care provider if you are losing a lot of weight without trying.

Seek medical help if decreased appetite occurs along with other signs of depression, drug or alcohol abuse, or an eating disorder.

For loss of appetite caused by taking medications, ask your health care provider about changing the dosage or drug. Do not stop taking medications without first talking to your health care provider.

What to Expect at Your Office Visit

The health care provider will perform a physical exam and will check your height and weight.

The health care provider will ask about diet and medical history. Questions may include:

Is the decreased appetite severe or mild?

Have you lost any weight? How much?

Is the decreased appetite a new symptom?

If so, did it start after an upsetting event, such as the death of a family member or friend?

What other symptoms are present?

Tests may be done to determine the cause of decreased appetite. These may include imaging tests, such as x-ray or ultrasound. Blood and urine tests may also be ordered.

In cases of severe malnutrition, nutrients are given through a vein (intravenously). This may require a hospital stay.

For help in finding a doctor or health service that suits your needs, call the UPMC Referral Service at 412-647-UPMC (8762) or 1-800-533-UPMC (8762). Select option 1.

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